Final Reflections

Today is Thursday July 31, 2008 and the second day back to the real life. NYE was such a wonderful experience for me as is everything I do with the UCC. Whether it is General Synod, NYE, Pilgrim Lodge, annual meetings, or church, it is all good. This past week brought me more out of my shell and brought me to the realization that this is what God is calling me to do, work with the youth. I know that I have made a difference in these kids lives…I am still getting text messages saying hello and asking how I was doing so something must have happened to them.

We were down at NYE as one, one from all states, cultures, and other backgrounds young and old. We were one family and we apparently will be forever. I sent the advisors and a couple of kids the link to the photos online and if you were there and want to see them please feel free to email me. Within 30 minutes of sending it out, I received a text message from Heather who sat in front of me on the bus. She said she loved the pictures but they made her sad. I know the feeling, I am sad the family has gone back to our jobs and our lives but each of us has the memories in us and the more we talk about them and keep in touch the longer the memories will live within us.

I know this sounds kind of on the sappy side, but isn’t it true. I keep thinking of the all too common phrase Valerie mentioned as well as Bryan at PL, Love God, Love yourself, and Love your neighbor and we’ll have a good week. This is what we all did down there and we are taking it with us and passing it on. It was a great week and while I missed my family I was with loved ones.

I like to do these kinds of things with the youth. I have this knack of figuring them out and what works for them like text messaging. This was something that was simple but worked. These kids are all about technology, so to be able to mold myself and grow with them the social process is much easier to follow. I like to see kids grow in their faith and to have the opportunities I missed out on when I was growing up. These kids will go far in life, and this is our future.

NYE was moving experience for all those who attended. I am signed up for the Regional Youth Event and will be on the planning committee. I am looking forward to continuing many of the relationships that have been built over the past week and to new ones that are yet to be created. Having these opportunities given to me gets me pumped up and ready to do what ever is needed to give these kids faithful opportunities to grow. I am not sure if time will allow in the next two years while I am on the planning committee, but I downloaded the advisor application for State Youth Council.

You know, I have a feeling that my final reflections will go on forever and many more will be written as I keep this memory alive and hope to go to many more events like this in my lifetime. To the youth out there don’t forget to Love God, Love yourself, and Love your neighbor and don’t forget to “Live the Life.” Peace and hugs everyone! This has been an awesome experience, thank you.